The student movements in Bangladesh have always led to significant outcomes. From 1952 to 1990, and even in 2024, each movement has achieved its goals. The victories of past movements have been captured in films and documentaries, and now, several new films and web series are in the works to depict the triumph of the anti-discrimination student movement.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the second and final chief minister of West Bengal during the 34-year Leftist Front rule, passed away on Thursday (August 8). Known for his deep cultural sensibilities, Bhattacharjee had agreed to donate his organs after his death. After a public tribute, his body was not cremated but was taken to the NRS Medical College Hospital in Kolkata.

Recently, at D23, Disney's biennial fan event in California, major film announcements were made, including the reveal of the title for the third "Avatar" film, a new chapter in the "Star Wars" series, and the announcement of a sequel to "Freaky Friday".

For nearly a week, the streets of Dhaka have been operating without the proper traffic police force. In their absence, students have taken it upon themselves to manage traffic regulations across the capital, earning widespread praise from the city's residents. Among those joining the students in this effort is the renowned actor and chairman of the Nirapad Sarak Chai (NISCHA), Ilias Kanchan.

The "Mohanagar" director shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing his deep respect for Mushtaq Ahmed and lamenting that he couldn't show the fearless writer a liberated nation, free from dictatorship.

Chobir Hat, a longstanding hub for students and progressives, reopened after a decade-long closure, symbolising much more than a physical space—it embodies a cultural spirit. The inaugural concert of the “newly independent Bangladesh”, titled “Awaaz Uda-Kotha Ko”, has recently taken place at Chobir Hat in Suhrawardy Udyan.

In early August, it was revealed that Bangladeshi actress Tasnia Farin is set to co-star with Kolkata's megastar Dev. The actress, known for her role in "Ladies and Gentlemen", shared her excitement about this new film project.

Eminent photographer, activist, and journalist Shahidul Alam, who has established himself as a force of integrity, is also someone who is profoundly revered by the informed populace. Today, however, his red bicycle was stolen when he attended the event “Shrishtir Shadhinotay Shahoshi Bangladesh” (Brave Bangladesh for freedom of art) at Central Shaheed Minar.

Even without cable, fans could relive those memories by watching online for free. Sadly, Warner Bros, its parent company, has decided to shut down the official Cartoon Network website.

The actress confirmed to The Daily Star that she does not use Facebook. The page that claims to be hers is fake, and is posting political content continuously.

In a joint statement, the assembled artistes addressed the recent turmoil, saying, "We have taken down the dictator through a bloody mass uprising led by the students of our country. We deeply remember the martyred who were brutally killed by Sheikh Hasina's regime. It's very unfortunate that we are yet to get the identification of many and have a confirmed number of the people who have lost their lives."

If I wanted, I could have received major awards during the BNP government, but I did not. It is not in my nature. However, the previous government did not do so. There has been lobbying in grants, the censor board, national film awards, Ekushey Padak, and Independence awards. Yet, it was martyred President Ziaur Rahman who introduced the National Film Awards.

Cultural figures, some without even being directly involved in the movement, fuelled the protest with their music, art, and philosophy. As the fire of resistance raged on, the veil of fear was lifted, and more voices joined in. We can only hope that today’s celebrities learn to question power rather than remain subservient to it.

With every brushstroke, SM Sultan brought the rural landscape and the essence of nature to life, capturing their beauty with unparalleled vividness.

Akshay Kumar has reported contributed Rs 1.21 crore to the Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai for its renovation process, as announced by the Dargah’s official social media account. The post noted that the actor has committed to funding a specific portion of the renovation project, amounting to Rs 1.21 crore. The trust praised the actor as a “true Mumbaikar” and expressed their gratitude for his generous support.

In a recent statement, the "3 Idiots" actor shared his motivation for producing the film.

Nachiketa is gearing up for his upcoming visit to the newly transformed Bangladesh.

Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, known for his sharp and thought-provoking narratives, has established himself as a prominent figure in the drama genre within the world of cinema. Over the years, he has directed several intense films and series, one of which, "Saturday Afternoon", has faced significant delays due to various challenges. 

The "Colours for Reform" campaign, which kicked off in the Science Lab area yesterday, comprises over 50 artists and 300 volunteers. The campaign seeks to preserve meaningful graffiti painted during the protests while refreshing Dhaka's walls with messages of hope and unity.

The first full-length Chakma-language film, “My Bicycle”, directed by Aung Rakhine, was screened yesterday at the Suhrawardy Udyan Open Stage, which was previously banned by the censorship board.